Condo Renovation Process & Rules in Singapore (2025 Guide)

Renovating a condo in Singapore is not the same as renovating an HDB flat. While both require approvals and involve multiple trades, condos are governed by MCST (Management Corporation Strata Title) rules. These regulations protect the safety, structure, and uniformity of the condominium.

If you’re planning a resale condo renovation in 2025, you must understand the step-by-step process and rules before work begins. Ignoring them can lead to fines, project delays, or even forced reinstatement.

This guide explains the entire condo renovation process, from approvals to completion, along with the rules you need to comply with.

Step 1: Planning & Design Stage

Before anything else, sit down with your interior designer (ID) or contractor to:

• Assess the existing condition of the resale condo (electrical, plumbing, flooring).

• Decide on scope of work: full renovation or partial upgrades.

• Create design drawings with layouts, carpentry, and material choices.

• Draft a budget (typically $50K – $120K for resale condos in 2025).

👉 Tip: Always plan for 10–15% contingency for hidden defects (e.g., water leaks, wiring issues).

Step 2: Submitting Renovation Permit to MCST

Unlike HDB flats, condo renovations need MCST approval before any work starts. Your contractor will usually submit on your behalf.

Documents required:

• Renovation application form.

• Detailed floor plan with proposed changes.

• Contractor’s insurance coverage & deposit (refundable after works).

• Cheque deposit (commonly $1,000–$5,000).

Typical approval timeline: 1–2 weeks.

Step 3: Understanding Condo Renovation Rules

Every condo has its own set of rules, but most include:

a) Renovation Hours

• Only on weekdays (9 am – 5 pm).

• Some condos allow half-day on Saturdays.

• Strictly no works on Sundays and public holidays.

b) Noise Restrictions

• Hacking works limited to specific hours (e.g., 9 am – 12 pm, 2 pm – 4 pm).

• Advance notice must be given to neighbours.

c) Structural Restrictions

• No hacking of structural beams, columns, or slabs.

• Wet areas (bathrooms, kitchen) must not be relocated without approval.

• Balconies cannot be enclosed permanently (unless MCST permits).

d) Safety & Cleanliness

• Proper debris disposal.

• Protective coverings on lifts and common areas.

• Contractors must register daily with security.

Step 4: Key Renovation Works

Once permits are approved, work can begin:

1. Hacking & Demolition

   • Removal of walls, old tiles, and built-ins.

   • Haulage fees often paid to MCST for waste disposal.

2. Electrical & Plumbing

   • Rewiring old systems.

   • Installing new plumbing lines if required.

3. Flooring & Tiling

   • Overlaying vinyl or hacking tiles.

   • Waterproofing wet areas.

4. Carpentry & Built-Ins

   • Wardrobes, TV consoles, study desks, and kitchen cabinets.

5. Painting & Finishing

   • Neutral tones recommended for brighter spaces.

6. Cleaning & Handover

   • Final rectifications before MCST inspection.

Step 5: MCST Inspection & Deposit Refund

After renovation, MCST may conduct a site check to ensure:

• Common areas are not damaged.

• Renovation matches approved drawings.

• Noise and safety regulations were followed.

If everything is in order, your deposit will be refunded.

Common Renovation Mistakes in Condos

1. Not checking MCST rules first → risk of fines or forced reinstatement.

2. Over-hacking → removing walls that are structural or disallowed.

3. Noisy works without notice → complaints from neighbours.

4. Ignoring waterproofing → leaks into units below.

5. Non-standard windows or grilles → MCST may order replacement.

Timeline for Condo Renovation (Typical 3-Bedroom Unit)

• Design & permit approval: 2–4 weeks

• Hacking & electrical/plumbing: 2 weeks

• Tiling & flooring: 2–3 weeks

• Carpentry & painting: 3–5 weeks

• Final cleaning & inspection: 1 week

⏱ Total duration: 8–12 weeks.

Costs of Condo Renovation in Singapore (2025)

• Partial upgrade (kitchen + bathrooms): $30K – $50K

• Full renovation (3-bedroom condo): $60K – $120K

• Luxury renovation (premium finishes): $150K – $250K

Renovating a resale condo in Singapore requires more than just design and budget planning—it’s about navigating MCST rules and approvals.

By understanding the process, rules, and common pitfalls, you’ll avoid costly mistakes, ensure smooth progress, and move into your dream home faster.